With over 20 years of experience as a social worker, addiction counsellor, and therapist, I am currently a lecturer at South East Technological University (SETU), where I teach and research social care and early childhood disciplines and the MA in Child Yourh and Family. I am currently three years into a doctorate in social science at UCC, I hold a master's degree in teaching and learning in higher education, a Masters degree in Social Science (Social Work) and a diploma in addiction studies,  restorative practice, mediation, and community reinforcement approach. My core competencies include teaching and researching in social work and social care work, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. My mission is to use my position as a Lecturer to enhance the well-being, empowerment, and social justice of individuals and communities. I value lifelong learning, diversity, and ethical practice, and I aim to bring diverse perspectives and experiences to the academic by engaged teaching and research.

My research and teaching interests are deeply rooted in the realms of social care, social work, and early childhood education and care. My academic journey is underscored by a commitment to fostering restorative justice practices, enhancing supervision in the caring professions, and promoting reflective practice. I am passionate about the pedagogy of social care, nurturing international collaborations, and delving into addiction studies and ethical considerations in social work and social care. My research extends to critical societal issues such as probation, crime, and sexual offending, with a burgeoning focus on migration, asylum seekers, refugees, hate speech, and the complex dynamics of social media. Additionally, I explore the intersections of eco-fascism and eco-socialism, disability and design, and universal design principles within childhood playgrounds. My work is driven by a dedication to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusivity (EDI), particularly in higher education, ensuring that my teaching and research contribute to meaningful and impactful societal change. My doctorate research employs a critical discourse analysis and Foucaultian lens to investigate the impact of regulation on social care practice and social work education, framed within the concept of governmentality. This multifaceted approach not only enriches my academic portfolio but also positions me as a dynamic and collaborative supervisor, keen to guide and support students and collaborate with fellow researchers in their scholarly endeavors.

My teaching philosophy is grounded in the belief that education is a transformative journey, designed to equip students with the skills to navigate and influence both academic and practical realms. Echoing Ernest Boyer's sentiment that 'teaching is the heartbeat of the educational enterprise,' I strive to ensure that the application of theory to practice settings is central to social studies education. Lee Schulman's concept of 'signature pedagogy' guides my approach, aiming to instill in students the ability to think critically, perform competently, and act ethically with integrity. My teaching goal is to empower students to confidently apply their knowledge to protect and enhance the lives of the most vulnerable in society.

Drawing on Paulo Freire's philosophy, I encourage students to develop critical consciousness, fostering an awareness of their identities and the socio-political landscapes they inhabit. This awareness serves as a foundation for addressing issues of injustice and inequality, facilitating social transformation. In my classes, education is never neutral; it is a dynamic process where students become acutely aware of power dynamics and oppression. Through dialogue, critical discussion, and problem-based learning, I create an environment where learners' interests and experiences are integral to their educational journey. This method ensures that students not only grasp theoretical concepts but also acquire practical tools for lifelong learning and social engagement.

My teaching encompasses a range of subjects within social care, social work, and early childhood education, emphasizing restorative justice, reflective practice, and international collaborations. I am particularly committed to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusivity (EDI) projects, ensuring that my teaching reflects these values. By incorporating these elements, I aim to prepare students to excel in their professions and contribute meaningfully to society, equipped with the skills to address complex social issues with empathy and expertise.

As a seasoned professional in the fields of social care and social work, I bring a wealth of expertise to consultancy roles, underpinned by my extensive experience as a supervisor and manager. My professional qualifications, coupled with years of hands-on experience, have honed my ability to lead and manage complex projects effectively. I have successfully developed and delivered on five major research grants and projects to date, showcasing my skills in project management, strategic planning, and service evaluation.

My consultancy approach is characterized by a meticulous blend of quantitative and qualitative research methods, with a strong preference for community-based participatory research. This method ensures that the voices of those most impacted by social policies and services are heard and integrated into the research process, leading to more relevant and sustainable outcomes. I excel in writing strategic plans that not only outline clear objectives and actions but also incorporate robust evaluation frameworks to assess the delivery and impact of services.

Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a consistent ability to manage projects from conception to completion, ensuring that all deliverables are met on time and within budget. My project management skills are complemented by a deep understanding of the social care and social work sectors, enabling me to provide insightful and practical consultancy services. My commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusivity (EDI) informs all aspects of my work, ensuring that the projects I lead are not only effective but also equitable and inclusive.

I am dedicated to fostering collaborative environments where all stakeholders are engaged and empowered. My consultancy services are designed to support organizations in achieving their goals through evidence-based practices, strategic planning, and continuous evaluation. By leveraging my expertise in both academia and practice, I provide comprehensive consultancy services that drive meaningful and impactful change in the social care and social work sectors.